University of Lethbridge - Faculty of Fine Arts

Storytelling has the power to connect, inspire and transform, and for Fine Arts/Pre-Education student Kennedy Chinn, it’s at the heart of her practice.

Through her passion for learning and creativity, Kennedy is exploring how stories shape the way we communicate perspective and connect with others.

Kennedy’s artistic journey recently expanded into public art through a mural mentorship opportunity with the City of Lethbridge, where she created a mural within the City Centre transit hub.

Read more about Kennedy, her mural and her artistic practice: https://stories.ulethbridge.ca/kennedy-chinn-cultivates-a-passion-for-learning-and-storytelling/

Congratulations to Kiara Pike (BFA - Art '26) on receiving the Faculty of Fine Arts Gold Medal! 👏🏅

With equal parts talent, discipline and generosity, Kiara has emerged from ULethbridge a compelling young artist. Drawn early to Art Studio, she distinguished herself through both her academic excellence and her commitment to uplifting others.

From mentoring peers to volunteering with the Art Society, Kiara has helped make creative spaces more accessible across campus. Gaining recognition during her studies through awards, exhibitions and a prestigious residency at the Gushul Studios, Kiara’s journey not only encompasses artistic achievement, but demonstrates a deep commitment to community and curiosity.

Read more about Kiara: https://stories.ulethbridge.ca/faculty-of-fine-arts-gold-medal-winner-kiara-pike/

Congratulations to Lucy Du (MFA '25) on receiving the School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit for her Master of Fine Arts! 👏🏅

After building a successful career in film as an art director and production designer, Lucy arrived at ULethbridge with a desire to reimagine storytelling through live performance.

Blending a strong foundation in visual art with a growing passion for theatre design, Lucy's graduate experience became a space to experiment, question perception and explore how visual illusion can shape the way audiences see and understand the world on stage.

Read more about Lucy's journey: https://stories.ulethbridge.ca/master-of-fine-arts-medal-of-merit-winner-lucy-du/

Congratulations to Bakhora Merzaeva (MMus '25) on receiving the School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit! 👏🏅

A recent graduate of our Master of Music program, Bakhora's educational journey was shaped by meaningful mentorship, a welcoming academic community and a deep commitment to understanding the intersection of music and identity.

Read more about Bakhora's achievements: https://stories.ulethbridge.ca/master-of-music-medal-of-merit-winner-bakhora-merzaeva/

The arts in Canada are uniquely Canadian 🇨🇦🎭

75% of Canadians surveyed by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce say that engaging with arts and culture makes a positive impact on their sense of belonging in Canada.

The socioeconomic benefits of the arts are many — including increased prosperity, health and social well-being.

People connect with the arts for a lot of reasons, from making new connections, gaining new perspectives, to reducing stress and enhancing wellness.

In the Faculty of Fine Arts, we support student learning and development through regular exhibitions, performances, concerts and more!

"A life of theatre is a life of variety." - Arlene Bedster (1970-2025)

Arlene Bedster (BFA – Dramatic Arts ’94) believed deeply in the power of storytelling, community and education. Today, her words live on, not just in memory, but in action.

Arlene's closest friends, colleagues and loved ones are coming together to honour her legacy by establishing an endowed scholarship for Dramatic Arts students, supporting the next generation of theatre artists.

Read more about Arlene: https://stories.ulethbridge.ca/from-stage-to-scholarship-arlene-bedsters-enduring-legacy/

DYK? The arts and culture sectors support more than 1.1 million jobs across the country! 🤩

This impact on the economy is significant, as the arts generate $131 billion dollars to Canada’s annual GDP.

Adding this value to the Canadian economy strengthens communities and supports artists through jobs, opportunities and education.

In the arts, the top fields are audio-visual media, interactive media, and visual and applied arts — all fields we support in the Faculty of Fine Arts with academic programming and community-focused events.

Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/fine-arts!

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓🎉

Convocation is a day of well-deserved celebration, signifying the completion of years of hard work and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your lives.

We hope you take time to reflect on your academic achievements and how much you have grown, the community you have built during your time at ULethbridge, and all those who supported you along the way.

We are cheering for you as you take the next step in your journey.

Fiat Lux!

Dr. Kerry B. Godfrey
Dr. Jackie Rice
Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch
Dr. Lisa Starr
Dr. Harold Jansen
Dr. Jon Doan
Dr. Matthew Letts

University of Lethbridge Deans

We're accepting applications for the Galt Museum & Archives BIPOC Undergraduate Award until May 31! 💰🖼️

This award is open to any undergraduate student at ULethbridge who identifies as Black, Indigenous, or racialized with an interest in collections management.

Earn $1,500 award for a work-study opportunity at the Galt Museum in the Fall term! Apply on our website at https://www.ulethbridge.ca/fine-arts/student-support/fund-your-education -Award.